Cost & Estimating
Project budgets, cost per square foot and material-vs-labor estimates.
Cost & Estimating guides
The formulas, conversions and how-tos behind these calculators.
How Much Does It Cost to Build a House? (2026 Per Square Foot)
A new house costs roughly $150–$250 per square foot to build (materials + labor), so a 2,000 ft² home runs about $300,000–$500,000 before land. Here's how the number breaks down.
Construction Cost Per Square Foot Explained
Cost per square foot is total project cost divided by floor area. It's the fastest way to compare builds and bids — here's what drives it and typical ranges by project.
Material Cost vs. Labor Cost in Construction
Labor is usually 50–60% of a construction project and materials 40–50%, though it varies by trade. Here's how to split a budget and why the ratio matters.
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Garage?
A detached garage costs about $50–$90 per square foot, so a standard 2-car (~480 ft²) garage runs roughly $25,000–$45,000. Here's the breakdown by size and type.
How to Estimate a Construction Project (Step by Step)
Estimate a build by taking off quantities, pricing materials and labor, then adding overhead, profit and a contingency. A repeatable method for accurate numbers.